Connolly, self-described as a “recovering political journalist now writing about health care,” is an engaging speaker, with a sense of a humor and an ability to coherently deconstruct a host of complex health care issues. She opens with a brief flurry of statistics and context-providing information, talks about some of the positive aspects of our health care system –– innovation, advances, longer life spans, and then focuses on the more problematic and illogical aspects. Gives good, clear examples throughout and clearly elucidates the difference between Bush and Kerry’s health care approach. Focus on malpractice reform is illuminating, as is discussion on value of mammogram and prostate screening. And of course, our 44 million uninsured, Medicare concerns, the high cost of pharmaceuticals in this country, and the grassroots revolt of mayors and governors who are buying drugs from Canada merit much discussion. An excellent hour on health care issues, definitely worth airing before the election. This is the second of the chautauqua series I’ve heard and thank goodness for WQLN’s public service bent.